Do you want to know the secrets to a successful flag football defense? If so, you’re in luck because this blog post will discuss some of the most important things to remember when playing defense. We’ll talk about how to become more effective in defense and how you can help your team to succeed.
Stay on Your Feet
Since this is in the rules, it seems like an easy task, but you would be surprised how many people end up on the ground during a flag football game. Not only does this give the other team an advantage, but it also puts you at risk for injury. If you can, try to stay on your feet as much as possible. With this one simple team, you will instantly become a more formidable defender (rather than an easy target!).
Keep Your Eyes Open
This is important for a few reasons; first, you need to be able to see the other team to defend them. Second, if you keep your eyes open, you are less likely to be surprised by a play and end up on the ground. Third, it will be easier for you to communicate with your teammates if you can see them. The more you keep your eyes engaged, the more likely you are to respond to situations in the right way.
Run Defense Drills
Like anything in life, flag football defense is all about practice, practice, practice. Running flag football defense drills will help you learn how to properly defend against an opponent. You can find plenty of drills online, or come up with your own. For example, you can set up a line of cones and have your team run around them, or you can have two lines of players passing the ball back and forth while you try to intercept it. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at flag football defense.
Run Through the Offensive Player
Of course, we aren’t suggesting that you actually tackle the person with the ball (that would be a personal foul), but you can run through them. If an offensive player has their arms extended with the ball in their hands, you can run through their arms to grab the flag. This will stop their forward momentum and give your team a better chance to catch up and make the stop.
Use Both Hands
Why limit your chances of success by using only one hand? Use two hands to grab the flag whenever possible; this will give you a better chance of hanging on to the flag and making the stop. Whenever you go in with one hand, there’s a chance that the ball carrier can spin out of your reach or that you’ll miss altogether.
Start High, Swipe Down
Whether you’re teaching young children or adults, the same rule applies: always start high at the hip and swipe down when going for the flag. By doing this, you won’t accidentally pull on the jersey instead of the flag, which would give the ball carrier an automatic first down. You also want to be sure to avoid any contact with the ball carrier’s head, neck, or face; not only is this dangerous, but it’s also a personal foul.
By following this advice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a flag football defensive powerhouse. Just remember to stay calm, focus on the ball carrier’s hips, and go for the flag. With a little practice, you’ll be racking up tackles in no time. Happy hunting!
